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After two years of fundraising, planning and preparation, history was made on July 11 when Ascension Via Christi Hospital’s radiology department performed its first 3D Mammogram in Pittsburg.

“It is the first 3D mammography system in southeast Kansas,” says Debby Regehr, director of Radiology at Ascension Via Christi Hospital. “The 3D system is proven to find invasive cancers earlier as well as to significantly reduce the need to be called back for additional tests.”

It captures multiple images or slices of the breast from several angles, creating a multi-layered breast image. The radiologist is then able to review the breast, one thin layer at a time, which helps in making a more accurate diagnosis.

This state-of-the-art technology will help provide the nearly 4,000 women who receive mammograms at Ascension Via Christi Hospital with the best care and most accurate test available, said Johnna Norton, executive director of the Mount Carmel Foundation.

“About 20 percent of breast cancers are missed by conventional 2D mammography,” she explained. “After having a 2D mammogram, about one in 10 women are called in for additional diagnostic screenings – most of whom have no abnormality at all.”

“While 3D mammography is more expensive, this technology will be available to all patients – no one will be forced to pay out-of-pocket for the upgrade to 3D,” Norton said. “The Mount Carmel Foundation wants to thank all our supporters and donors for helping us bring this technology to the area.”

The foundation raised a total of $438,000 to bring the equipment to Pittsburg. All donations raised by the foundation remain in the community to support hospital needs.